Gait analysis with optimal shoe wear recommendations In North Liberty

Gait Analysis & Optimal Shoe Wear Recommendations

Understanding Your Gait for Better Performance & Injury Prevention

Your gait—the way you walk and run—plays a crucial role in overall movement efficiency, injury prevention, and performance. A proper gait analysis can identify biomechanical imbalances, muscle weaknesses, and improper foot mechanics that contribute to discomfort or inefficiency. At Motion Matters Physical Therapy & Wellness, we specialize in comprehensive gait assessments to help you move pain-free and perform at your best.

What is Gait Analysis?

Gait analysis is a detailed evaluation of how you walk or run. Using advanced techniques, our experts assess:

• Foot strike pattern
• Ankle, knee, and hip alignment
• Stride length and cadence
• Weight distribution and balance
• Muscle activation and joint movement

By understanding these factors, we can pinpoint inefficiencies and recommend targeted interventions, including exercises, orthotics, and footwear adjustments.

Common Gait Issues We Address

• Overpronation (Excessive Inward Rolling) – Leads to knee pain, shin splints, and arch collapse.
• Supination (Insufficient Foot Rolling) – Can result in ankle instability, stress fractures, and plantar fasciitis.
• Uneven Stride Length – May contribute to hip and lower back pain.
• Heel Striking vs. Midfoot Striking – Affects impact absorption and running efficiency.

How Proper Footwear Supports Healthy Movement

The right shoes play a key role in preventing pain and enhancing performance. Based on your gait analysis, we recommend:

• Stability Shoes – Ideal for overpronators who need additional arch support.
• Neutral Shoes – Best for runners with a balanced gait and efficient biomechanics.
• Cushioned Shoes – Beneficial for individuals with high arches or a tendency to supinate.
• Motion Control Shoes – Designed for those with severe overpronation requiring extra stability.
• Minimalist Shoes – Encourages natural foot movement but requires gradual adaptation.

Why Gait Analysis Matters

A personalized gait assessment provides:

• Injury Prevention – Identifies and corrects movement patterns that contribute to pain or discomfort.
• Improved Performance – Enhances efficiency and biomechanics for runners and athletes.
• Long-Term Joint Protection – Reduces stress on knees, hips, and lower back.
• Optimized Comfort – Ensures you wear the best shoes for your unique foot mechanics.

Get Your Gait Analyzed at Motion Matters Physical Therapy & Wellness

At Motion Matters Physical Therapy & Wellness, we provide expert gait analysis and shoe recommendations tailored to your needs. Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or someone experiencing foot and joint pain, our specialists can help.

Schedule your gait analysis today and step into better movement!